Christmas Dinner

After ten days of round-the-clock overtime, with all the bid documents organized, there were fewer than five hours left until the submission deadline. The business department had taken them for binding, and I was leaning on the desk, staring out at the dark night, my mind filled with a mountain of numbers.

"Have a cup of coffee to perk you up; once we stamp the documents, I'll take you back to catch up on sleep."

Feng Suchuan handed me a steaming cup of coffee, then pulled up a chair to sit next to me as we both gazed out the window. The rich aroma of coffee enveloped us, and the air became enchanting. I blinked and stared at the rising steam for a few seconds while slowly sipping.

After a while, I asked him, "Do you think we have a good chance of winning the bid?"

Feng Suchuan withdrew his gaze and looked at me, his eyes bloodshot. He rubbed his forehead and replied, "It's hard to say, but making it to the next round is definitely not a problem."

"How do you know?"

"The PR costs have already reached nearly ten million. If we can't even secure the first round, the people from the Shanghai branch can just pack up and leave."

I was taken aback, my mind suddenly clearing. "Ten million! My gosh, are the kickbacks really that fierce now?"

Feng Suchuan chuckled lightly. "For a billion-dollar project, if you don't have at least fifty million, don't even think about it."

I felt confused and responded with a slightly unpleasant tone, "If that's the case, why are we working so hard? We might as well just throw money at it!"

Feng Suchuan shook his head while looking at me, stood up, and patted the top of my head with a smile. "That's the unspoken rule in this industry. Only when you've paved the way can you get a fair chance to compete. Otherwise, you'll just get eliminated."

"Alright, you don't need to understand or accept this, just do your job well. I'll go check the bid documents; you can rest for a bit."

Watching him turn away, I felt perplexed. Over the past four years, Feng Suchuan had invested in my growth without reservation, but he had never let me join in on social events. As his assistant, I hadn't accompanied him to a single party, whether with clients or subcontractors. Song Ying had once defended me, saying he took all the advantages for himself, but I didn't think he was that kind of person.

At that moment, I thought perhaps he didn't want me to harbor negative feelings about society and was protecting me in his own way, trying to keep me a clean worker.

When Feng Suchuan brought me back to the hotel, I felt completely exhausted, as if my body had fallen apart, and I could barely keep my eyes open. He followed me into the room, and I simply collapsed onto the bed, unwilling to move. In my daze, I felt someone helping me take off my shoes and cover me with a blanket. When I felt a warm touch on my face, I opened my eyes and saw him wiping my face with a towel. I was taken aback for a moment before sitting up.

Taking the towel from his hand, I awkwardly said, "I can do it myself."

Feng Suchuan smiled calmly, ruffled my hair, and said, "Soak your feet before sleeping. I'm leaving. I'll come back to pick you up for lunch."

I nodded without saying a word. After he left, I looked at the washbasin by the bed; the steam rising from it blurred my vision once again. I sniffled and placed my feet inside. Almost instantly, I felt my body relax, but deep down, I felt a sadness. Ultimately, I couldn't openly accept his concern anymore. 

Feng Suchuan was not someone who muddled through situations; his current actions confused me. Had I not been clear enough before? It seemed I hadn't explicitly refused him; I had just said I couldn't meet that additional condition. Should I clarify further?

But what if he had no other intentions and only regarded me as a friend? 

My feet splashed in the basin twice, and I felt extremely frustrated watching the droplets fly out. When would I finally understand Feng Suchuan's thoughts?

I lost track of when I fell asleep, only feeling that I had slept for a very long time. When I opened my eyes, the first sight that greeted me was the splendid view outside the window. The sunset had painted the entire horizon red, beautiful enough to make me dizzy. For a moment, I didn't know where I was until a deep, smiling voice broke the silence.

"Finally awake."

Feng Suchuan was sitting on a nearby sofa. After checking the time, he turned to me and said, "From six in the morning until four in the afternoon, a full ten hours! You really can sleep!" 

My mind wasn't fully alert yet. Clutching the blanket, I looked at him with a dazed expression. After a moment, I raked my hair and sat up. "I'm hungry!" 

The man on the sofa stood up, his tall and proportionate figure wrapped in a soft glow as he slowly walked toward me. He bent down to grab a pair of slippers and placed them by the bed, smiling at me, "You should be hungry. Freshen up, and we'll go eat." 

I jumped off the bed and yawned, asking him, "Did we make it to the next round?" 

"We did." 

"Oh, so is there a celebration tonight?" 

Feng Suchuan nodded, a gentle warmth in his eyes. 

I frowned. "How annoying! The colleagues from the Shanghai branch are the most unruly." 

Feng Suchuan turned me around by the shoulders. "Go wash your face quickly. Tonight, we're going solo, not with them." 

My eyes lit up as I turned to look at him. "Are you serious?" 

"Of course!" He flicked my forehead and turned back toward the sofa. 

I touched my forehead and bit my lip as I headed to the bathroom, thinking about how subtle our relationship was! 

That evening, Feng Suchuan took me out for Shanghai cuisine by the Huangpu River. It was very luxurious and extravagant.

After finishing, when I saw him put the receipt into his wallet, I leaned over for a closer look and grinned, asking, "You can get reimbursed for this, right?"

He paused, then tilted his head to look at me, his eyes glinting with mischief. "What do you think?" 

I was at a loss for words and rubbed my nose. "The thing I hate the most in life is playing guessing games with you!"

Feng Suchuan laughed heartily, pulling me out of the restaurant as if I were a little chick. 

Once in the car, after driving for a while, I turned to ask him, "Aren't we going back to the hotel?"

Feng Suchuan made an exaggerated surprised expression, saying, "You actually know this isn't the way back to the hotel? You really surprise me!" 

I shot him a sidelong glance. "Can you go a day without poking fun at me?" 

He stifled a laugh, reaching out to pat my head, but I dodged and said with annoyance, "Don't touch me all the time; we're not that familiar!" 

His expression froze for a moment before he smiled. He gulped down his drink in one go, then took a deep breath and looked at me, saying, "Of course I'm willing; anyway, I'm not planning to take anyone seriously during this time." 

I was momentarily taken aback, feeling a mix of emotions, but I couldn't help but retort, "But you're always flirting with others outside." 

He smiled slightly, his gaze unwavering. "That's just for fun; I know where my heart lies." 

I felt a stir within me, wanting to ask more, but the words got stuck in my throat. 

"Don't believe me?" He tilted his head, his eyes seeming to probe. 

"It doesn't matter if I believe; I'm not someone you can control." 

"Who wants to control you?" He chuckled lightly, though his expression turned serious. "I just want to find a place where we can be quiet together and understand each other." 

I was taken aback by his words, and for a moment, my emotions swirled, leaving me speechless.

"Perhaps there shouldn't be too many constraints between us; it might be better to let go of the past and give each other a new beginning." I silently pondered, acknowledging the truth in his words, yet sensing a hint of impracticality.

At that moment, the music on the dance floor grew louder, and the people around us continued to revel in the night's festivities. Feng Suchuan's hand lightly rested on my shoulder, his gaze scanning the crowded room as if searching for something.

"What do you hope the future looks like?" he suddenly asked me. 

"I hope..." I echoed the question in my mind but found no answer. 

"I don't know either." It seemed he too fell into contemplation, then turned to look at me again, a faint smile on his lips. "But I believe the future will definitely be better than now."

I couldn't respond, yet inside, a flicker of anticipation began to arise. In that bustling bar, the distance between us felt like it was changing, and our feelings were quietly deepening. I had a vague sense that this was perhaps just the beginning. 

He closed his eyes, sat quietly for a few minutes, and then looked up at me with a smile. "Not willing for now? Let's go, silly girl!" 

I grabbed his arm and said, "Even if you were willing, I wouldn't be; in fact, I won't settle for anyone, including Wen Xicheng!" 

Feng Suchuan looked at me, his mouth curling into a slight smile as he held my hand despite my struggles, looking into my eyes with a hint of alcohol on his breath. "In life, you always have to leave yourself a way out. Don't say things too definitively. This world is full of traps and uncertainties. Actually, tonight I initially planned to get you drunk and then have a wild one-night stand, acting like nothing happened the next day. With your personality, would you still be with Wen Xicheng? Definitely not; maybe you'd even resign, which would give me the right to pursue you."

He raised his hand and gently brushed the hair from my cheek, tucking it behind my ear. The smile on his face gradually deepened. "From now on, there will be no more 'first love' nonsense; I understand you, I spoil you, and I know your weaknesses. One day, I will wait for you." After a slight pause, he smiled charmingly. "So, do you think I'm scary, huh?"

I stared wide-eyed at his handsome face so close to mine, and after a long moment, I swallowed hard and said, "Boss, are you suffering from alcohol poisoning?"

Twenty-eight [Silly Girl] ...

After returning from Shanghai, my relationship with Feng Suchuan grew much closer; the previous barriers seemed to vanish all at once, as if we had returned to a time before we started dating. I could talk about Wen Xicheng in front of him without hesitation, and he would tap my head lightly and call me an idiot when no one else was around. I think the reason for this shift was my last sentence at the bar.

I remember that after I finished speaking, Feng Suchuan was stunned for a full ten seconds before bursting into laughter, unable to straighten up. Finally, he looked me in the eyes and asked, "Do you trust me that much?"

I didn't reply; instead, I lowered my head to look at my chest, feeling a bit dejected. "I may not have the assets for a one-night stand."

Feng Suchuan paused for a moment but laughed heartily, rubbing his face and patting my shoulder. "Being self-aware is good, but don't be too self-deprecating!"

I glared at him. As he put his arm around my shoulder and led me out of the bar, he said, "What a child!"

I think, in his heart, he has never regarded me as a mature woman who could stand beside him. He understands me and pampers me, but he has never said he loves me. Even while we were dating, we were at most friends who were more than friends but not quite lovers.

Now that I can set aside that immature relationship and return it to the realm of confidants, I consider this the best outcome possible!

After returning from Shanghai, Feng Suchuan resumed picking me up at the apartment every morning, driving straight to the underground parking. After encountering Wen Xicheng a few times, he noticed that I didn't wear much of a smile, especially since He Zifei's company had just been established and required extensive networking; we basically had social events every night. It had been a long time since the four of us had gathered together.

I never told Wen Xicheng about the cold war, breakup, and restoration of friendship between Feng Suchuan and me. He likely thinks that we reconciled after our trip to Shanghai. For some reason, I don't want to explain it, or perhaps I simply don't know how. Feng Suchuan bluntly remarked that my feelings for him were gradually fading. I didn't argue, but deep down, I knew that they weren't fading; rather, I was making a conscious effort to suppress my restless emotions. If I wanted to rekindle love, I would have to confront the grievances and resentments buried deep within me. He ultimately owes me an explanation!

The Shanghai project reached its final stages, and Feng Suchuan and I rushed back to make the last adjustments to the proposal. The price was determined, and after Feng Suchuan consulted with General Manager Zhang, he lowered the bid by two points. He went in to place the bid while I waited in the car. Three hours later, they emerged with smiles on their faces.

We won the bid.

That night, the Shanghai branch held an exuberant celebration. The boss announced that all employees who participated in this bid would receive extra bonuses at the end of the year. I held a glass of juice and smiled foolishly, feeling genuinely happy.

Feng Suchuan approached with a drink in hand.

"Very happy?" he asked.

I nodded, "This year-end finally brings some hope."

He flicked my forehead with his finger and said, "Look at you and your little achievements." 

I glared at him and continued sipping my juice. 

Feng Suchuan didn't say anything but turned to look at the large television screen. Some colleagues were singing Eason Chan's "Your Backpack," and the nostalgic music filled my heart with a hint of melancholy. 

"Thinking about him?" The deep voice of the man beside me interrupted my reminiscence. 

I sighed deeply, shook my head, and switched my juice for beer. 

"He seems not to know that we've broken up. When are you planning to tell him?" 

I turned to him and asked, "What do you think it means if I tell him that I broke up with you now?" 

Feng Suchuan's gaze flickered for a moment before he smiled and said, "It means you've decided to start over with him." 

I shrugged and replied, "So I can't say anything because I'm not ready for that." 

Feng Suchuan lowered his head and was silent for a moment. He lightly clinked glasses with me and said, "Let's change the topic. This project in Shanghai probably won't start before the end of the year, but we can't slack off on the preparatory work. The design optimization plan will be handed over to the company's design department, and for you, the task is to filter equipment brands based on the parameters they've revised. Many domestic brands can't meet the technical requirements, so we might need to consider some less common options. You should familiarize yourself with these manufacturers' products and get a sense of the prices; the final pricing might take at least three rounds, which is quite a workload." 

I nodded in agreement. 

He rubbed my shoulder and said, "It's become a tradition for me to work overtime on this day." 

Wen Xicheng looked at me, his expression gradually softening. "I remember that night you wore a red dress; you looked particularly beautiful." 

"Really?

"I felt a bit shy and replied softly, 'I didn't do much to dress up; I just wanted to look a little more spirited.' 

'That's because you cared about him.' It seemed he was talking to himself, or perhaps analyzing my feelings. 

'I just think I have some wonderful memories of that night.' I avoided his gaze, feeling a bit uncertain. 

'Do you remember the ring I gave you?' he suddenly asked. 

I was taken aback; that ring was something I had kept carefully, a precious memento from my first love. 

'Of course I remember,' I nodded and slowly spoke those words. 

'What do you think its significance is?' 

His voice remained gentle, but it was laced with an emotion I couldn't quite grasp. I pondered for a moment, trying to find the right answer. 'Perhaps it symbolizes hope, anticipating that the future can be better.' 

'Regardless, I hope you can be happy,' he said with a slight smile, and that warm feeling quietly rippled within my heart. I sighed softly; although I had experienced many ups and downs over the years, the sweetness of first love still lingered within me. 

'We still have time; the road ahead is long, so there's no rush,' Wen Xicheng's words were like sunlight at dawn, warm and gentle. 

'Yeah,' I replied with a faint smile, feeling my unease and worries gradually fade away. As night deepened, we enjoyed this delightful dinner together, savoring each other's company. 

It was so beautiful that I could never forget it in my life, yet it came to a sudden stop at the most perfect moment. I dared not recall it, fearing that I might get trapped inside and unable to escape; then I truly wouldn't know how to breathe. 

Wen Xicheng slowly lowered his head, the steam from the hot pot obscuring my view. I kept smiling, but everything before me became increasingly blurred. After four years of waiting, I could finally express the true thoughts hidden deep within my heart to him. I had suppressed them for too long, and now they were finally released."

A wave of overwhelming ease washed over me.

After a long while, the man across from me finally lifted his head. A gentle smile graced his face, and a fiery spark danced in his eyes, revealing the depth of his affection. He looked at me intently, and with a slight lift of his lips, he said, "My girl can't live in memories forever; today, I'm here to help you forget!"

From the small alley, Wen Xicheng chose not to drive. He held my hand as we strolled down the street. He wore a dark gray toggle coat that suited him perfectly, and a black-and-gray checkered scarf wrapped twice around his neck, complementing his handsome features, much like a movie star—exceptionally eye-catching.

His hand gently enveloped mine, then nestled it into the pocket of his coat. He played with my fingers, occasionally squeezing or brushing against them. Such intimate and ambiguous gestures made my heart flutter, rising in waves.

"Where are we going?" 

"To a special bar." 

I was a bit puzzled. "What's special about it?" 

He turned his head slightly to look at me, laughter glimmering in his eyes. "You'll know once we get there."

His gaze was so warm that my mind momentarily went blank. I said nothing and nodded like a fool.

After turning a couple of corners, at the end of an old street, I saw a small house. Its exterior blended seamlessly with the surrounding old buildings, adorned with a shiny "BAR" sign on the porch, understated yet mysterious.

Before entering, Wen Xicheng held my hand tightly, as if fearing I might suddenly vanish. I turned to him; his gentle smile remained, but there was a hint of sadness in his expression.

The bar was very quiet, not bustling, with soft lighting. A man on a small stage held a guitar, singing softly; his voice was alluring yet tinged with weariness, and the melody was beautiful, something I had never heard before.

Sitting at the bar, Wen Xicheng ordered a cocktail for himself and juice for me.

"The singer is King, a very talented bar singer; all his music is original," Wen Xicheng whispered in my ear, his gaze fixed on the stage. When the man turned his attention our way, Wen Xicheng raised his glass in a toast. The man's deep eyes lit up slightly, and he nodded gently before continuing to sing, his expression intensely focused, as if everything around him had faded away, as though he were performing solely for himself.

"Hey! Didn't you say you were busy today?" A slightly overweight man with long hair approached, casually draping his arm over Wen Xicheng's shoulder to greet him.

Wen Xicheng didn't respond; he merely smiled and glanced at me. The overweight man looked past him and, after a moment's pause, smiled, "Xia Tian?" I was surprised. I looked at Wen Xicheng and nodded with a smile, "Hello."

The man nodded and patted Wen Xicheng's shoulder, "The festivities start in half an hour; take good care of her." Wen Xicheng smiled and nodded, and once the man left, he said to me, "He's the owner of this place; we all call him Brother Fat."

I tilted my head to look at him. In the dim light, there was a faint sparkle in his eyes, mingled with emotions I couldn't quite grasp.

I sensed that Wen Xicheng was different tonight, though I couldn't identify how exactly. It felt as though he emanated a mysterious aura, much like the bar itself.

He had just referred to "us," implying he was a regular here, part of a close-knit group of friends, none of whom I had ever heard him mention before. I suspected that He Zifei likely had no idea that Wen Xicheng had other friends in this city.

I observed his shadowed profile and experienced a sense of unfamiliarity.

The lights in the bar gradually dimmed. When a spotlight appeared on stage, Wen Xicheng set down his glass, stood up, walked behind me, and wrapped his arms around me. I shivered violently; before I could react, he rested his chin on my shoulder and said, "Look at the stage."

His voice was soft and gentle, almost imbued with an irresistible charm.

I obediently turned my head to look at the center of the stage, and then I covered my mouth in shock.

The stage, which had been empty moments ago, was now crowded with people—more specifically, men in pairs. The bar played soft, soothing music; some people on stage were dancing while others were tightly embraced, many passionately kissing as if utterly unaware of the world around them.

The sight hit me with such intensity that I lost my ability to think; I could only stare wide-eyed, my body beginning to tremble.

Wen Xicheng held me tightly. He didn't look at the stage but instead buried his face in my neck, gently rubbing against me. When the music stopped, the entire bar plunged into darkness. A few seconds later, candles slowly lit up in every corner, revealing that the people on stage had dispersed. The man who had just played the guitar walked back up; he sat at the edge of the stage, still softly singing, but his gaze was fixed on a man not far from him, filled with deep affection yet tinged with sorrow.

"This is a gay bar; some people here are married with children, while others are in passionate relationships with their girlfriends."

They cannot share the secrets hidden in their hearts, nor can they allow themselves to succumb. In fact, they only permit themselves to indulge once a year, on this very night, when they cast aside their burdens and express their feelings without any reservations." Wen Xicheng's voice was faint, as if it came from a very distant place.

I turned to look at him, my eyes filled with shock and panic. He rested his head on my shoulder, gazed into my eyes, and then smiled. "Fool, of course I'm not."

I sighed in relief as he continued, "Every year on this day, I feel like I can't get through it. My mind uncontrollably replays the scenes of that year we were together, again and again, driving me almost insane." I took a deep breath, and as I exhaled, my heart was overwhelmed with hurt.

He held me tighter, as if he wanted to merge me into his very being. "They are happier than I am; at least they can bury their love deep in their hearts, but I don't have that option. Loving you feels like an insult to you. Xiàtiān, I am in great pain."

My eyes brimmed with tears. His words, "I am in great pain," felt like a punishment to me, the heartache almost unbearable.

I clutched his arm and whispered, "What happened in America these past few years?" Wen Xicheng said nothing, only shook his head repeatedly, his lips pressed against my neck, trembling slightly. "Can't I even say it?" He remained silent. When I felt dampness on my neck, I heard his hoarse voice: "Xiàtiān, you don't know how much courage it took for me to decide to come back and find you. I truly love you! You must be happy!"

I closed my eyes, letting the tears fall freely. When he spoke those words, they came out with a choke, but to my ears, they carried a sense of helplessness and despair. Then, a voice echoed in my heart: Forgive him; even though he has hurt you, his life isn't any better than yours.

He must have had unavoidable reasons to leave you, and since then, he has been tormented by guilt every day. He has loved you to the point of desperation; isn't that punishment enough? In the vast sea of people, meeting, knowing, and loving one another is so difficult. Xiàtiān, you are stronger than he is, so love boldly!

The people around us began to celebrate, and the music had long since shifted to upbeat jazz. The dampness at my neck increased, and the arm around me showed no sign of loosening. I reached back to caress the man's face behind me, gently wiping away the tear stains. 

Wen Xicheng turned his head slightly, cautiously kissing my palm. 

After a long pause, I said, "I've broken up with Feng Shuchuan."

The body holding me tensed. After a moment, Wen Xicheng turned my shoulder, his bright, dark eyes filled with deep affection and reluctance.

His fingers, cooler than usual, glided gently over my face, eventually resting on my chin, which he held softly. Just as I was still in a daze, he bent down slowly to kiss my lips. He kissed me as if cherishing the moment infinitely; the soft, damp sensation made my heart gradually tighten. I didn't respond, only passively accepting it, while his tongue lingered on my lips without venturing further. After a long while, he stood up straight and embraced me again. My face pressed against his heart, its rhythm gradually synchronizing with mine.

Stepping out of the bar, it was approaching midnight. The cold wind hit me, making me shiver. Wen Xicheng immediately turned around and wrapped me in his arms. 

"Cold?" he asked. 

I shook my head, looking at the solid chest in front of me, my heart racing wildly. 

Wen Xicheng cupped my face, kissed my forehead, and then crouched down. 

I felt a bit awkward. "What are you doing?" 

"Get on; I'll carry you!" 

I quickly stepped back two paces. "No, I'm fine. Why would I have you carry me?" 

He turned his head and smiled gently. "To carry you to welcome Christmas!"

I bit my lip, gazing at him for a few seconds before walking over and climbing onto his back, my face turning red. When Wen Xicheng stood up, he chuckled softly. I wrapped my arms around his neck and asked, "What are you laughing at?"

"Little chubby girl!" 

I covered my mouth and giggled, tightening my grip around his neck, burying my face in his scarf and inhaling his familiar scent, filling my heart with sweetness.

After walking two blocks, Wen Xicheng kissed my cheek and said, "Be my companion for the banquet tonight."

I shifted a little on his back and replied, "I've already agreed to go with our manager."

"Cancel with him!" 

I rolled my eyes. "How can I do that? If I offend him, I'll have a hard time ahead." 

Wen Xicheng stopped and turned to look at me, his face full of grievance. "Then what should I do?"

I tilted my head and pondered for a moment, then cheerfully suggested, "With so many invitations, why not just accept one of them?"

He squinted his eyes, "You dare say that?! If you keep spouting nonsense later, just wait; I'll teach you a lesson!"

I stuck out my tongue, choosing not to argue. After a moment, I said, "What about asking Song Ying to be your partner?"

"Why her?"

"Because she poses no threat."

Wen Xicheng laughed immediately. "You're quite clever, but forget it; I can't deal with that."

I leaned closer, peering into his eyes. "Does that mean you'd be all alone? How pitiful!"

He replied with a straight face, "You can afford to be a bit more schadenfreude!"

I blinked and fell silent, resting my head on his slim shoulder while gazing at the bright moon in the sky. I chuckled softly, feeling that I had finally grasped the happiness I sought. Four years of waiting and past pain could not compare to a single "I love you!" We had missed our chance once, but thankfully love remained. He hadn't gotten engaged or found a fiancée; he returned to find me, and I still loved him, so let's be together.

I believe that one day he will open his heart to me and reveal what really happened during those four years in America!

The Christmas dinner was set for eight o'clock in the evening. By the time Feng Shuchuan and I arrived, everything had already been prepared. 

The grand hotel lobby, adorned with dazzling colorful lights, made it hard for my eyes to adjust. I raised my hand to shield my eyes and heard someone nearby laughing.

"What's so funny?"

"Not classy at all, not up to standard!" Feng Shuchuan chuckled lightly, lowering his head.

I tugged at my beige dress, straightened my back, and looked directly into his eyes. "What about this?"

Feng Shuchuan smiled again, took my hand, and linked it with his arm.

I struggled slightly, "Don't hold my hand; it's not good if people see us."

"Who would think it's not good, hmm?"

I glared at him. "Don't make fun of me! I will get angry!"

He handed me a glass of champagne and pulled me toward the buffet area. "If you have the courage to mingle, why worry about what others say? Stop glaring at me; looking all indignant like that makes me feel like a criminal, and now it feels like I've really committed a crime!" 

Hearing the loneliness in his voice, I bit my lip and let go of his arm, making a face at him before I went to grab a plate. A few minutes later, sensing some commotion, I turned to look and couldn't help but grin.

Wen Xicheng appeared at the entrance in a light beige casual suit. The somewhat flashy color perfectly highlighted his warm temperament. With his delicate features, handsome face, and elegant demeanor, he quickly became the center of attention at the event. He casually placed one hand in his pocket and scanned the room. When our eyes met, a gentle smile spread across his face. He exchanged a few words with a female colleague he had flirted with in the past and, like a dashing prince from a fairy tale, walked toward me.

I felt like Cinderella stepping out of a pumpkin carriage, standing there blankly with a heart full of both nervousness and joy as I waited for him to approach.

As someone put their arm around my shoulder, I turned to find Feng Suchuan, looking somewhat displeased. He chuckled lightly, glanced at Wen Xicheng a few steps away, and whispered affectionately in my ear, "Tonight, you're my date." I rolled my eyes in frustration and looked innocently at Wen Xicheng. The man across from me didn't seem displeased; he smiled gently and greeted Feng Suchuan with an expression that conveyed the appropriate demeanor of a great general.

As he was leaving, he suddenly leaned close and said softly, "Don't drink. I'll take you home after it ends." I turned and winked at him, smiling warmly and nodding in agreement.

Once Wen Xicheng departed, the arm that had been around me loosened, and Feng Suchuan let out a light snort, turning to say, "Xia Tian, you really are something!" I felt embarrassed, adjusting my dress and following him like a little puppy. "Boss, please don't be mad! You know how uncontrollable feelings can become!"

"Shut up!" 

I chuckled softly, trying to appease him by serving food onto his plate. After a while, he finally looked directly at me, but when he saw my plate piled high with food, he sighed heavily, appearing defeated.

Once the banquet began, General Zhang delivered a speech, followed by Feng Suchuan. It was clear he was a significant figure in the company. Feeling a bit stuffed, I stood in a secluded corner holding a glass of juice, my gaze not on the man speaking under the spotlight but searching for Wen Xicheng. When our eyes met, I smiled shyly, my heart racing as if it were about to leap out of my chest, and my cheeks felt warm.

Wen Xicheng chatted for a few moments with those around him, and just as he was about to walk toward me, the noisy crowd suddenly quieted down.

Accompanied by General Zhang's deep voice, I looked toward the stage. 

"Next, let's welcome Chairman Wang, who has come all the way from America along with his little princess, Amy." 

Applause erupted like a tidal wave. A man and a girl walked in through the side door, both exuding remarkable grace—noble and elegant. The man was Chinese, while the girl beside him, holding his arm, was an extraordinarily beautiful mixed-race child, wearing a gentle smile and sparkling eyes, reminiscent of a Barbie doll. 

Once on stage, Chairman Wang took the champagne from General Zhang and began to pour from the top glass. Fireworks erupted beside him, and the applause from the audience never ceased. As I turned my gaze away to look for Wen Xicheng, I found that he had already disappeared from where he had been standing. Just then, a sweet female voice came through the microphone.

"Xi, I miss you!" 

I turned back in surprise to see Wen Xicheng standing next to the beautiful girl on stage, though I couldn't discern when he had arrived. 

Wen Xicheng looked pleased, wearing a gentle smile. After taking a step forward, he embraced the girl, and though his lips moved silently, I could clearly see that he said, "Me too!" 

I stared blankly at the exceptionally harmonious scene on stage, feeling as if someone was pounding on my heart with a hammer, completely dazed and unsure of how to react. 

He is the prince; she is the lovely, adorable princess. So where do I fit in? 

I blinked hard, trying to decipher what had just happened from Wen Xicheng's expression, but I gained nothing; he was simply looking at the noble little princess, his gaze full of familiar indulgence, leaving no space for anyone else. 

I felt the air in the hall growing thinner, almost impossible to breathe. I stood there helplessly, my hands clasped tightly together, turning my head in a panic, looking around. 

When I met Feng Suchuan's concerned gaze, my eyes turned red almost instantly.

Feng Suchuan still stood on stage, his eyes fixed on me as he mouthed, "Don't go, wait for me!" 

I pressed my lips together, trying hard not to let the tears flow; I neither nodded nor shook my head, resembling a little dog that had been abandoned, my gaze locked on him without blinking. 

Then I heard Chairman Wang's voice: "Thank you all for your hard work this past year. I'm very happy we have your company. Now, please allow me to introduce my little daughter Amy and her fiancé, Wen Xicheng!" 

As soon as he finished, the audience erupted into chatter, followed by warm applause. I shut my eyes, turning to leave as tears slipped down my cheeks. 

My heart felt shattered, scattered everywhere, leaving behind only an empty shell as I walked out of the banquet hall. I couldn't hear the crowd's blessings or see their smiling faces.

All I could think was: Xia Tian is the biggest fool in the world! 

On a winter night, with biting cold winds, I walked down the street in a thin evening dress, looking utterly disheveled. I cried loudly, losing all dignity, almost gasping for air. Passersby occasionally glanced at me in surprise, but I paid them no mind; I just wanted to cry, feeling so wronged that I didn't know how to comfort myself!

When Feng Suchuan found me, I was standing at an intersection, watching the traffic lights switch from red to green, uncertain of where to go. My tears had long dried, but my heart still ached. The man in front of me wrapped his suit jacket around my shoulders, his face etched with concern as he kept calling my name. 

I looked up at him in confusion, then smiled after a moment and said, "I can't find my pumpkin carriage anymore. What should I do if I don't know the way home?" Feng Suchuan's gaze was filled with deep sorrow as he picked me up and softly said, "Don't be afraid, I'll be here. You will definitely get home!"

I clung tightly to his shirt, burying my face in his chest, my body shaking violently. Once in the car, Feng Suchuan held me in the backseat. He said nothing, only gently patted my back, as if comforting an injured child. 

I don't know how long it took for my body to stop shaking; my heart had already become numb. I sat up, hugged my arms tightly, and bowed my head to savor the taste of despair.

Feng Suchuan rolled down the car window, lit a cigarette, and gently stroked my back. His voice was hoarse when he said, "Xia Tian, say something to me. You're scaring me like this." 

I breathed out lightly and replied, "I'm fine now, thank you!" 

Feng Suchuan wrapped an arm around my shoulders, urging me to lean against him, and quietly asked, "Are you cold? I'll take you back after I finish this cigarette." 

I nodded without speaking.

A few seconds later, he spoke again, "After you left, he ran out with me.

Maybe there was some misunderstanding. Should I call him?" 

I shook my head and softly replied while looking out the window, "This time, I can finally be completely free. Boss, I feel like I've been reborn. From now on, I won't be sad anymore; it's really good!" 

Feng Suchuan stared blankly for a moment, ruffled my hair, and smiled, "As long as you're not sad, everything will pass." 

I gently nodded and then smiled. Who said Xia Tian couldn't forget Wen Xicheng? That was because there was still hope. When only despair remains, those memories fade away with it.

By the time Feng Suchuan dropped me off at the apartment building, it was already past two in the morning. Seeing the tall figure standing by the black sedan, I felt neither surprise nor anger; my heart was calm. 

When Wen Xicheng heard the sound and turned around abruptly, he saw me and extinguished his cigarette before rushing over. 

"Xia Tian!" His voice was hoarse, filled with anxiety. 

Feng Suchuan released his hold on me and said, "You two talk; I'll go have a smoke."

I tugged at his shirt, saying, "No need." Then I turned to Wen Xicheng and added, "It's late; I want to go back and rest."

He blocked my path, speaking urgently, "Xia Tian, I didn't lie to you. I really didn't get engaged to her. At the last moment, I realized my grandfather had deceived me, and I left the engagement banquet. After that, I thought of many ways to return home, but none succeeded. Later, some things happened, and Amy helped me a lot, so..."

I waved my hand to interrupt him and replied firmly, "You don't need to explain anything to me. Whether you're engaged to someone or not, it doesn't concern me. Wen Xicheng, you're no longer my friend!" My voice was calm, and my gaze remained steady.

The man before me looked at me with a mix of shock and fear. Wen Xicheng, visibly agitated, grasped my shoulders tightly. "Xia Tian, listen to me. It's not that I don't want to explain; I genuinely don't know how to express it.

"If you want to know, I can tell you everything that's happened in these four years. Can we find a place to talk?" 

I struggled to break free from his grip, took a step back, and replied, "I'm not interested, nor do I want to know. Unless it's work-related, I don't want any more contact with you. I hope you can manage your emotions; if you can't, I will resign and leave this city." 

With no lingering attachment, I turned away, took a few steps, then glanced back and added, "I just want to live more simply. I hope you can understand. Thank you!"

Back at the apartment, Feng Suchuan didn't leave immediately. I changed out of my gown and found him quietly standing on the balcony, his tall figure appearing even more slender under the moonlight. I poured two cups of milk tea and walked over, catching a glimpse of the car below concealed in the darkness and the man standing beside it, before handing him a cup.

Feng Suchuan took it and turned around, leaning against the railing to block my view. 

"Maybe what he said is true." 

"So what? It has nothing to do with me!" 

Feng Suchuan nodded and stood up straight. "Let's go inside; it's windy." 

I turned and followed him, no longer looking down at the street. 

After Feng Suchuan left, I lay in bed staring at the ceiling in a daze, feeling very cold and in pain. In fact, I didn't know where it hurt; I just felt uneasy. My mind was blank, refusing to think about anything. Occasionally, fragments flashed through my mind, and all I could feel were two words: heartbroken! 

Four years ago, when I was abandoned by Wen Xicheng, I was heart-wrenchingly sad, crying over memories that once brought me joy and unable to extricate myself. Now, my heart felt like ashes. In reality, for the past four years, there had been a glimmer of hope in my heart that Wen Xicheng did not have a fiancée, and that he even confessed to me the very next day after returning that he was not engaged.

All of my feelings for him were built on this foundation, so when a living, breathing princess stood beside the prince, Cinderella's dream was completely shattered. Trust, commitment, heartache, reluctance—everything vanished.

Although I am very reluctant to admit it, I know that the resentment deep within my heart has been awakened. Yes, now when I think of that name, all that my nerves reflect is hatred! This hatred arises not only from his abandonment, betrayal, concealment, and deceit but also from my own inner inferiority. For a long time, Wen Xicheng has been the prince in everyone's heart; he possesses all the qualities that people admire and yearn for. Perhaps from the first moment I laid eyes on him, I became unable to extricate myself from my obsession with him. It was just that I was aware of the gap between us, so I deliberately kept my distance. Yet when He Zifei told me about Wen Xicheng's feelings for me, I should have been elated.

When we were together, I loved him wholeheartedly, pampered him, and treasured him humbly. Even after four years apart, my love for him has never waned; nearly every day, I imagined him returning to find me.

After our reunion, I struggled and hesitated, but ultimately I succumbed to this so-called love. I always believed that only I could provide him with warmth, yet I never imagined that someone else had already taken my place. The love I could offer was something others could give as well, rendering my affection seemingly insignificant. I realized that the act of fully giving up was not due to a loss of love, but rather the understanding that I was no longer the only one in his life.

Wen Xicheng is no longer that gentle young man who couldn't live without me. My love for him, which lasted for four years, has finally dissipated. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths one after another, gradually calming the turmoil within me.

Wen Xicheng has shattered my belief in love; I fear I may never be able to believe in love again in this lifetime.

The next day, I took half a day off and didn't get out of bed until noon. I turned on my phone to find a flurry of text messages flooding in. I glanced through them—most were from Liu Ni and He Zifei, asking me to call them back. I guessed they already knew about my situation with Wen Xicheng. I didn't reply, still unsure how to explain it to them.

By the time I reached the company, it was lunchtime. The large office was empty, and Feng Suchuan entered with his laptop. He paused for a moment upon seeing me, smiled, and walked to my side. "Didn't I tell you not to come in this afternoon? Your eyes are still swollen. You should go home," he said. I shook my head and smiled. "I'm fine." He sighed gently and said, "Let's have dinner together tonight." I nodded, feeling warmth spreading inside me.

As he turned to go into the office, I looked away and noticed a dark figure at the door. Our eyes met for a few seconds before I calmly turned my gaze elsewhere.

A few minutes later, Wen Xicheng approached my side with soft footsteps. "Can we talk?" His voice was hoarse. "I'm busy." "Xia Tian!" I looked up and gazed at him coolly, "What I said yesterday still stands; I really will resign or leave this city." Wen Xicheng's face had lost all color; he lowered his head to stare at me, the exhaustion of an all-night vigil etched on his features, and helplessness shimmered in his eyes.

Other colleagues from the office started to come in one after another; I turned my head and stopped looking at him. A few seconds later, the person next to me slowly turned away, and I raised my eyes to see his stiff, straight back. I felt no heartbreak, only sadness.

Not long after work resumed in the afternoon, Song Ying messaged me on MSN: "It seems our boss isn't feeling well. Do you think I should go check on him?" I replied: "Do as you wish."

His fiancée is here, so I don't want to disturb him. I didn't expect he really is the son-in-law of the big boss. Xia Tian, they are truly a good match; I've completely given up. I set my MSN to away, took a deep breath, closed the chat window, and adjusted myself to continue the work I had interrupted.

When Amy entered our office, it caused quite a stir. Everyone stopped what they were doing and turned to look at her. I glanced up only once before redirecting my focus to the computer screen, my fingers continuing to type at the same rhythm as before. After Amy greeted everyone with a smile, she approached me. "Xia Tian." Her Mandarin was slightly off, yet her voice was undeniably pleasant.

I stood up, smiled politely, and said, "Hello." Amy warmly embraced me, "Xi often mentions you; you're even prettier than in your photos. Would you like to have dinner together after work?" I stepped back and smiled, "I might have to work late tonight."

She raised her eyebrows, contemplated for a moment, then looked at the man behind the glass partition, smiling as she said, "Wait for me."

With that, she walked directly into Feng Suchuan's office. I turned around and leaned against my desk to peek inside. Amy approached Feng Suchuan's desk and said something to him, her expression lively and bright—she is truly beautiful! My heart tightened, pain stabbing at me as I breathed.

After she finished speaking, Feng Suchuan slightly furrowed his brow and eventually gave me a gentle nod. I forced a smile, lowered my gaze, and sat back down in my chair.

When Amy emerged from the office, she wore a smile and told me, "He said he definitely won't let you work late tonight." I looked at her and smiled, "Sorry, I just remembered I have plans with friends tonight; I can't join you for dinner." Amy looked momentarily surprised, shrugged, then said, "That's a pity, let's do it next time. BYE!" I watched her elegant figure turn and leave, gently biting my lip.

Offending the boss's daughter might mean I could lose my job soon.

Feng Suchuan stepped out of his office and called to me, "Come in for a moment." I stood up and followed him inside, where he closed the door and drew the blinds. After opening a window and lighting a cigarette, he said, "It's not very polite to refuse her directly like that..."

"Am I to blame?" 

Amy was taken aback and glanced at Wen Xicheng without saying a word. 

He Zifei continued to laugh, patting Wen Xicheng on the shoulder. "If I had known you would bring your fiancée, I would have never sold out Xiaotian. Bro, we've really been apart for too long; even this little bit of tacit understanding is gone." 

After saying that, he turned to Liu Ni Yi. "Ni Zi, I'll move out with you tonight. Tomorrow we'll find a bigger place and let Xiaotian move in with us; we who have no fiancée can only rely on friends to live!" 

I lowered my head and smiled slightly, noticing large beads of cold sweat rolling down Wen Xicheng's cheeks, feeling unexpectedly pleased.

Isn't being abandoned by everyone just like this? Since he has new friends and a new lover, we too should exit the stage. From now on, he'll walk his own sunny path while we traverse our own narrow bridge, with no ties left between us!

After He Zifei finished speaking, he sat back next to Liu Ni Yi, while Amy positioned herself beside Wen Xicheng, incessantly asking if he was okay. Wen Xicheng did not respond at all; he simply looked at me in silence. 

During the meal, no one spoke. I ate my fill, and after finishing, I clapped my hands and stood up. Without looking at Wen Xicheng, I grabbed my bag and walked out of the private room with Liu Ni Yi. 

While waiting for a taxi, He Zifei supported Wen Xicheng as they emerged; Wen Xicheng kept his head bowed, utterly drained and leaning on him, while Amy looked on anxiously, on the verge of tears. 

I stood on the roadside, coldly watching them, my expression unreadable.

As they approached, He Zifei said, "Ni Zi, help the little beauty hail a taxi." 

Liu Ni Yi pursed her lips, somewhat unwilling, prompting He Zifei to glare at her. "Hurry up!" 

I grabbed Liu Ni Yi's arm and said, "I'll go." 

After hailing a taxi, He Zifei told Amy, "Little beauty, you go back first; I'll send your man back to the apartment." 

At the mention of "your man," Wen Xicheng frowned and glanced at me. I gave a faint smile and turned my face away to look into the distance. 

Amy did not move, stubbornly staring at He Zifei. 

"Amy, you go back to the hotel first; I'll call you later," Wen Xicheng managed to say, straightening up to look at her gently.

After Amy left, we hailed another taxi, and I directly sat in the front seat. He Zifei sighed as he watched me and helped Wen Xicheng into the back seat, where Liu Ni Yi squeezed in beside him. 

After giving the address to Wen Xicheng's apartment, I turned to see him curled up, resting on He Zifei's lap. I noticed his body trembling and pondered for a moment, "Should we go to the hospital?"

He Zifei did not respond, and Wen Xicheng's trembling voice came, "No need, I'm fine." I turned without a word and looked out the window; the silver moonlight beautifully adorned the city, but my heart bore a shade of gray.

Back at the apartment, He Zifei helped Wen Xicheng into the bedroom while Liu Ni Yi returned to her room to pack. I sat on the sofa watching TV. After He Zifei came out, he sat directly beside me, took out a cigarette, lit it, and smoked in silence. A few minutes later, Liu Ni Yi came out carrying a suitcase, urging He Zifei to tidy up. He Zifei extinguished his cigarette and said to me, "He's feeling really bad; I'm afraid something might happen. Just stay to keep an eye on him." I nodded, stood up, and said to Liu Ni Yi, "Let's go." As I walked past the coffee table, He Zifei called out, "Xiaotian, can't we really just be friends? Eight or nine years of feelings, you know!"

I smiled and replied, "Not that long; at most, it's just four years. Zifei, you don't have to move out." Before He Zifei could respond, Liu Ni Yi snorted coldly, "If you don't move, then don't come looking for me!" I waved to He Zifei and pulled Liu Ni Yi out directly.

That night, Liu Ni Yi and I lay on the same bed, talking until late. Once she fell asleep, I quietly got up, put on my coat, and walked out of the bedroom. I poured a glass of milk and went to the balcony, gazing at the bright moon in the sky as tears slowly streamed down my face. It turns out that hurting him still makes me sad; I just can't feel the pain anymore. Inside, it's empty, devoid of any feeling. The New Year is just around the corner, and I desperately hope the days will pass quickly. I have never longed to go home like I do now, yearning to see my family. Family is always your final harbor; this saying is undoubtedly true. Thinking of my lovely, plump old lady, my loving dad, and my thoughtful little brother, I wiped my tears and smiled at the starry sky.

Perhaps I really should leave this city and return to their side!

The next day, Wen Xicheng didn't come to work. That evening, Feng Suchuan invited me to eat Hunan cuisine. I was sweating profusely, and the spiciness brought tears to my eyes. Feng Suchuan handed me a tissue, then lit a cigarette, leaning back in his chair as he smoked slowly. 

I kept eating, and the tears continued to flow. 

During the meal, the atmosphere was quiet; we said nothing, as if we had returned to four years ago, except that Feng Suchuan's gaze toward me was no longer calm, revealing a hint of tender concern and sadness. 

Time had changed, but what remained unchanged was the tacit understanding between us. At that moment, I still felt a deep sense of gratitude toward him, but it was only gratitude.

When I returned to the apartment, the lights were on in the living room.

He Zifei was sitting on the sofa watching TV, a black suitcase beside him. I could hear water running from the bathroom—it must have been Liu Ni Yi taking a shower. 

I walked over and asked, "Have you found a place?" 

He Zifei took out a cigarette and lit it. "Yes, a three-bedroom apartment, not far from where you work. We're moving tomorrow night." 

I thought for a moment and replied, "My lease is up at the end of the year; I'll wait until next year to move." 

"Xiaotian," He Zifei called, his voice deep and slow.

I turned my head and saw him gazing out the window with a vacant expression; his profile hinted at loneliness in its sharp lines. 

"There's something I haven't told you, not even to Ni Zi." 

"What is it?" 

"Two years ago, Xicheng came looking for you." 

I abruptly turned my head, my eyes wide with shock and confusion. 

"Are you wondering why I didn't tell you?" 

I nodded.

He Zifei smiled bitterly and said, "At that time, he asked me for your contact information, and I asked him why he wanted to abandon you. He didn't say, only telling me he wasn't engaged and hadn't wronged you."

I then asked if he could come back, but He Zifei fell silent. I said, "Since you can't come back, then don't come and stir things up." Xiaotian, perhaps this is the most foolish thing I've done; if you really can't even be friends, then I am the culprit!

I covered my face with both hands, a heavy weight pressing on my heart, suffocating me without respite. He Zifei pulled my hands down, forcing me to look into his eyes, which were filled with regret and pain. He said slowly, "Xiaotian, if hurting him can make you feel a bit better, I'll help you! But he is ultimately my brother. Once you've vented most of your resentment and grievances, I plead with you to spare him; I still need to bring him back. He is different from us; when we get hurt, at least we have family to support us, but he has none. If he dies, I'll have to collect his body!"

After He La Zhi Fei finished speaking, he turned his face away, and the redness around his eyes instantly made my heart ache—an unbearable pain!

That night, I lay in bed unable to sleep. After tossing and turning for a while, I got out of bed and walked out of the bedroom. He La Zhi Fei was lying fully dressed on the sofa. I looked at the sparks flickering between his fingers and slowly walked over. Resting his arm under his head, he flicked the ash off his cigarette and looked at me. "Can't sleep?" he asked. I gently nodded, sat cross-legged on the small sofa, sighed, and said, "Zhi Fei, I feel like I've lost control; I'm only thinking about revenge, watching him suffer, but in reality, I'm not happy at all. What should I do?"

He La Zhi Fei sat up, extinguished his cigarette, and quietly replied, "I don't know. I don't know what mindset to have when facing him. Seeing him suffering because of you makes me feel sorry for him, yet his ambiguous attitude towards that Amy makes me think he deserves to be punished."

After a sigh, he lit another cigarette and, after a moment of silence, continued, "He hasn't mentioned anything about the four years in America. I can't understand him anymore. Xia Tian, your indifference is actually the greatest harm to him. I wonder what kind of person he will become if I give up on him!"

I stared blankly at the ground, a chill sweeping over me. The bone-chilling cold wasn't coming from outside but was spreading gradually from my heart, leaving me feeling utterly devoid of warmth. After exhaling, I looked up and smiled, "I will adjust myself as soon as possible. You should move back; don't worry about the girl here; I will clarify things with her." He La Zhi Fei was silent for a moment, then shook his head. "You've already moved out. What's the point of going back? He should be thinking about what kind of life he truly wants. If he wants to be a prince, he doesn't need my comfort."

"But if he wants to live like an ordinary person, he must understand what it means to suffer the consequences of his actions!"